Rookwood Sound Radio Celebrates Award-Winning Evening at National Hospital Radio Awards

23rd April 2026

Rookwood Sound, a hospital radio station based at the University Hospital Llandough, has been filling the airwaves with music and entertainment for patients, visitors and staff for over 37 years.

Staying in hospital can be a very lonely time for patients and hospital radio has proven to be beneficial in lifting patients’ moods and aiding recovery. This was reaffirmed when Rockwood Sound recently won several awards at the National Hospital Radio Awards, hosted by the Hospital Broadcasting Association (HBA). It was an extra special evening as the HBA celebrated their 100th anniversary.

Rookwood Sound had a very successful evening and came away with several awards:

Stephen Allen – Gold Award for Best Speech Package

This entry was an extract from an interview with the Helen Thomas from the 2Wish charity, which was broadcast during Dying Awareness Week. Helen explained the enormous grief that led to the creation of the charity and the things that people need when they have been blindsided by the death of a child or young person.

Debra Brown and Stephen Allen, The Flagship Show – Bronze Award for Best Programme with Multiple Presenters

The judges shared that the Flagship Show is an engaging and interactive programme that appeals across all ages. Debra and Stephen’s natural friendship and conversational style make the broadcast feel welcoming and inclusive, drawing listeners into the discussion rather than talking at them.

James Ellacott – Bronze Award for Best Newcomer

James was praised for his funny, uplifting and relatable stories. The judges said he has huge energy and obviously puts a lot into the show.

John Bingham – Bronze Award for Unsung Hero

Despite having a demanding job, John dedicates time and energy to his work in hospital radio. He has been described by colleagues as the heartbeat of Rookwood Sound and someone who is always there to help, advise and make things better.

The team also had two top five placements in award categories and received a Highly Commended awards for:

Lesley Jennings, Northern Soul – Best Specialist Music Programme

Wesley Pritchard, Tuesday Social – Male Presenter of the Year

You can listen to Rookwood Sound on DAB across South Wales. For more information about, visit their website: www.rookwoodsound.com